Whether you scheduled a wellness or sickness exam, to make the most out of your doctor’s appointment, it is essential to prepare for your visit to an internal medicine practice. By planning to arrive early and making a list of questions, you are taking an active role in preventing and treating medical conditions, benefitting your health and well-being. These tips apply to both in-person and virtual appointments.
Here are some things to do before and during your doctor’s appointment.
Arrive Early
If this is your first visit to an internal medicine practice, you should plan on arriving half an hour early, allowing sufficient time to fill out new patient paperwork. Aim to arrive at future appointments ten to fifteen minutes early. That will ensure you have been checked-in, had your vitals taken (i.e., blood pressure, body temperature, oxygen saturation), and are in the patient room at your scheduled appointment time.
Make a Prioritized List of Questions
Avoid leaving the appointment without asking your physician questions by making a list before the visit. The questions can be related to your condition, tests, procedures, medicines, lifestyle changes, or treatment. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends prioritizing your questions and, if there is enough time left, covering any additional questions you may have. It is a good idea to take notes that you can refer to later.
Keep Your Physician Informed About Changes
It would help if you discussed changes in your physical and psychological health with your physician. Inform them if there have been any changes in your activity, appetite, energy levels, sleep, pain, or weight since your last appointment. It is also vital that the physician knows about any recent visits to the emergency room or a specialist. Also, tell them if you suffered an injury resulting from an accident, fall, or another cause.
Book Your Internal Medicine Appointments in Advance
Woodlands Diagnostic Clinic is an internal medicine practice that provides patients with compassionate, quality care at our medical clinic or virtual telehealth.
The physicians at Woodlands Diagnostic Clinic have been caring for the families of North Houston, Conroe, and The Woodlands for many years. They are committed to optimizing patient health and well-being. Schedule an appointment at (281) 863-9554.
We are Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Dr. Charron offers extended hours on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm.
Resources:
“5 Ways to Get the Most Out of Your Doctor’s Visit.” The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
“Insider Tips to Maximize Your Doctor Visit.” Harvard Medical School: Harvard Health Letter.
“Preparing for Medical Visits.” The American Heart Association.
